Integrated Pest Management

Pesticide Reduction

In May 2005, the Lawrence City Commission requested the Parks and Recreation Department
to select a park to conduct a pilot program, maintaining it as a pesticide-free area for a
one-year period. Lawrence Parks and Recreation staff chose Watson Park in Downtown Lawrence.

During this time, the department experimented with non-pesticide products to manage weeds,
insects and fungi in the park, as well as develop a volunteer network to help manage the space.
Volunteers assisted with the park by weeding the flower and shrub beds.

Any individuals or
groups interested in volunteering are asked to call the Parks and Recreation Department, (785) 832-3450.

Other step being taken to reduce citizen exposure to pesticides:

All pesticides purchased for the 2006 growing season and beyond will be EPA Category III and IV pesticides, which
will also reduce chemical applications to the least toxic option for each control issue.

When pesticide use is necessary, signs will be posted one hour prior to application.
They will be placed in highly visible areas and remain up for 24 hours after application.
The notification signs will include: the name and active ingredient of the pesticide product,
the target pest, the date of pesticide use, and contact information for the city department.

For those wanting specific information on their neighborhood park and its pesticide program, please contact the Parks and Recreation
Administrative Office at
parksrec@lawrenceks.org or (785) 832-3450.

In 2008, a Integrated Pest Management program was created by department staff with input from the public. A IPM Policy Manual was
created as an on-going working document for the department The following is the Manual: